What reforms did enlightenment thinkers make to the government?

Enlightenment thinkers advocated for reforms that emphasized reason, individual rights, and the separation of powers. They challenged absolute monarchy and proposed democratic principles, such as popular sovereignty and constitutional government. Thinkers like Montesquieu promoted the idea of checks and balances among branches of government, while Rousseau emphasized the social contract and the importance of civic participation. These ideas laid the groundwork for modern democratic systems and influenced revolutionary movements worldwide.